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The Berger Picard or Picardy Shepherd is a French breed of dog of the herding group of breeds. These dogs nearly became extinct after both World War I and World War II and remain a rare breed to this day. This breed of dog is people-oriented, loyal, and can make a good family pet if properly socialized early in life.

The producers of the 2005 American movie Because of Winn-Dixie brought five Picards over from Europe ("Scott", "Laiko" and "Tasha" performed in the movie). The trainer, Mark Forbes, wanted a dog that resembled the scruffy mutt on the original book's cover but needed several that looked alike so that production could continue smoothly, thus he decided on this rare purebred dog from France.

It is this breed's rustic mutt-like appearance that has prevented it from being rapidly popularized and exploited in the United States by the movie release, as has been the fate of some other dog breeds. People are often fooled into thinking "Winn-Dixie" is a mixed breed.

Like any breed of dog, the Picardy Shepherd is not for everyone, and much thought must be devoted to choosing the right dog. As more Picard puppies are imported into the U.S. from France and other countries, it is important that owners and future breeders remain responsible; they will determine the fate of this breed in the United States. The Berger Picard Club of America has been formed to help promote and protect this breed.

Berger Picard Appearance

Berger Picard overview

Weight:

50-70 lbs. (23–32 kg.)

Height:

21.5-26 inches (55-66 cm.)

Coat:

Harsh, crisp, thick strong hair, about 2-2.5 inches (5-6 cm.)

Litter size:

2-10 pups

The Berger Picard is a medium-sized, well-muscled dog, slightly longer than tall with a tousled yet elegant appearance. Their ears are naturally erect, high-set and quite wide at the base. The Berger Picard eyebrows are thick, but do not shield their dark frank eyes. They are known for their smile. Their natural tail normally reaches to the hock and is carried with a slight J-curve at the tip. Their weather-proof coat is harsh and crisp to the touch, not excessively long with a minimal undercoat. Coat colors fall into two colors, fawn and "gray" with a range of shade variations.

Berger PicardTemperament

The Berger Picard's attributes include a lively, intelligent personality and a sensitive and assertive disposition that responds quickly to obedience training. By and large, Picards are laid back and mellow but they are known for having a stubborn streak and being reserved towards strangers.

The Berger Picard are energetic and hard working, alert, loyal and sweet-tempered with children. They are happiest when they have a job to do. They also have a protective nature, making them good guard dogs. However, they are not excessive barkers. Some Picards are notoriously picky eaters, and it may be difficult to decide on a diet that you and the dog agree on.

The dog breed also has a well developed sense of humor making them an endearing companion, and they continue to be used very effectively as both sheep and cattle herder in their native land and elsewhere.

Like many herding breeds, The Berger Picard require human companionship and lots of it. Since they can be demonstrative to their owners and enthusiastic friends towards other animals, formal obedience training and plenty of positive socialization is a must. Athletic, loyal and filled with a desire to work a long day, the breed excels in any "job" as long as enthusiasm and praise is a part of the task.

Berger PicardHealth

The Berger Picard due to lack of over breeding are a relatively healthy, disease free breed. Hip dysplasia is known, but not common. Nevertheless a reputable breeder will have hips and elbows x-rayed and eyes certified for hereditary diseases. The dog breed's life expectancy is 13 to 14 years.

Berger PicardExercise

Bred to work the fields, The Berger Picard are very athletic and revel in exercise. A good deal of exercise is therefore a must for this breed. Otherwise boredom will give way to destructive doggie behavior and rowdy play. They enjoy swimming, running beside a bike, and nice long walks. The Berger Picard makes an excellent jogging companion. The breed's intelligence and sensitivity have made it increasingly popular in dog sports such as agility, Tracking, Schutzhund, Flyball and French Ring Sport.

Berger PicardLiving conditions

Despite being more suited for being outdoors, The Berger Picard can do surprisingly well in city life provided they are given enough energy-releasing exercise. However, the Picard always tries to stay close to its owner and family, so when given a choice between being alone in a big yard or inside with its master the Picard would rather be with his "shepherd." Inside the house the Picard is usually a very quiet dog, waiting for its time to go out to run, play and sniff around.

Berger PicardGrooming

The Berger Picard is a low maintenance dog. The rough, tousled coat does not mat or require special care to yield its rustic appearance. Brushing should only be done about once a month. Bathing is rarely done. Their fur should never be trimmed except maybe around the ear edges. They are not profuse shedders and have little "doggie odor".